End of an era as two Clitheroe shops close

An independent Clitheroe chocolate shop is set to close after almost a century in the town.

The Chocolate Box, in King Street, will close its doors at the end of this month to customers after 91 years of serving Belgian Chocolates, sweets, ice cream and a range of other treats. The beautiful shop was established in 1927 and retains many of its original fixtures and fittings.

Justin Smalley, who runs the business, said: “It’s really sad. It’s an old-fashioned sweet shop and loved by a lot of people.

“I would have like to have carried on, but the building has been bought and the new owners don’t want the business to continue as a chocolate shop.”

The father-of-two added: “I would like to thank everyone for their support.”

In a Facebook post, the owners said: “The decision has been taken to close the Clitheroe shop; consolidate resources; redeploy staff and concentrate on the continued growth and expansion plans for our Longridge based retail, online and catering businesses. We feel that this is a positive decision and in the best interest of the business.

“We would like to thank you for your custom and assure you that you can still purchase your favourite Anderton’s products via our website on a click and collect basis or home delivery. We apologise for any inconvenience.”